Slow cooker beef barley soup –Fall is the perfect season for warm and comforting dishes. One such recipe that is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly is the Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup. This dish not only has a rich flavor but also boasts the goodness of nutritious ingredients. Let’s dive in and explore how you can make this delightful soup right in your slow cooker!
Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup
Picture this: a hearty bowl of beef barley soup simmering away, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and can be made with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones while it cooks.

Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned is fine)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by prepping your vegetables and beef. Cut the beef stew meat into uniform pieces and chop the vegetables. This ensures they cook evenly throughout the dish.
- In your slow cooker, combine the beef, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and pearl barley. Stir the ingredients together to mix them well.
- Next, add in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The longer, the better, as this allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the beef to become tender.
- Once the cooking time is up, check to see if the beef is fork-tender and the barley is fully cooked. If needed, adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color.
This Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup is a fantastic meal to bring people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup will undoubtedly delight everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy the rich flavors and the comfort it brings, and don’t forget to soak up every last drop with some crusty bread on the side!